Japan Open seems like the precedent or model for the series that Scott Hamilton is trying to get going. Anyone know if any updates on that event? If I recall correctly, the proposal was for an event on each of the major 'skating continents' which would mean an event somewhere in "North America" Would be positive for the sport to see a televised, well attended event during a non Olympic year

Japan Open will be held at Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan.
It will start at 1:00 p.m. on Oct. 1, 2011.

It's kind of like an ice show with judges. The skaters will likely skate their new or current programs, which will be judged.
The scores will then be added for each team, and the team with the highest score wins.

Although it's a competition, the atmosphere is more laid-back and fun.
All the skaters sit together in the arena and cheer for their teammates.

The competition will be televised in Japan on tv-Tokyo, but I don't know when.

The same skaters will skate at Carnival on Ice, an ice show, at the same arena in the same evening.
You need a separate ticket for that show.

How exciting for Japan to be hosting this event. I know that there have been numerous shows throughout Japan which have taken place over the summer. The competition aspect to this event, will hopefully, in some way, mark the full return of this proud nation to hosting international events. I wish them all the best for a glorious event!

Star power is right, even if it's pre real season for these champs. I'm really looking forward to seeing all the new programs!

Patrick may not perform as well as Wong figures. Firstly, he is not going to do a new quad, which is scheduled for the Canadian Nationals if things go well. Secondly, he has hardly had time to train this summer at all, doing shows in Asia and now travelling to Japan. Koz and Dai did shows in Japan and will now compete at home as well, leaving them with much more time and energy to train and to compete. I think Team Japan and Team N America are quite even, much depending on the performances of the less consistent skaters and the pros who haven't competed for a while.